10 Off the Beaten Path Places in Italy

Italy — home to iconic cities such as Rome or Venice and world-famous landmarks like the Colosseum — is actually a great place to discover off-the-beaten-path sites and unusual experiences.

Off-the-beaten-path travel is all about finding lesser-known places that haven’t yet been overrun by tourists and don’t leave locals feeling like they hate visitors. Furthermore, it fosters sustainability by distributing income to areas that may not normally benefit from it. In this way, it serves the purpose of tourism, which is supposed to be a two-way exchange that enriches both travelers and residents.

In this guide, we’ll take you on an immersive journey through some less well-known gems: medieval Bergamo, charming ancient Matera, picturesque Locorotondo, historic Taranto, and the coastal town of Monopoli. Furthermore, Alberobello, Padua, Savona, Brescia, and Trieste will transport you back in history on Italian land.

If you’re ready to venture beyond the tourist crowds, read further to uncover lesser-known destinations for an unforgettable vacation. Let’s discover the beauty found off the beaten path in Italy!

Bergamo

Bergamo is located in the Lombardy region, just an hour by car from famous Milano. It’s often overlooked due to that popular neighboring city, but I dare you to pay a visit to this lovely town — you won’t regret it!

The old Venetian wall is what makes Bergamo unique. The medieval fortification is 6 km (3.7 miles) long and 50 meters (164 feet) high, with green areas surrounding it for walks, lined with benches providing spectacular views. The wall, some of which dates back to 1561, was built to deter sieges. In 2017, it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bergamo has two distinct parts: the Città Alta (Upper Town) and Città Bassa (Lower Town). 

Città Alta remains impregnable today because of the aforementioned wall. This is also where historic landmarks, like the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colleoni Chapel, transport you to a bygone era. 

As you descend to the Lower Town via the funicular or by foot, you’ll enter a more contemporary side of Bergamo. Città Bassa is a more modern area, with boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Matera

Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Basilicata region of southern Italy, is best known for its Sassi district, where cave-like homes, believed to be among the first human settlements in Italy, are carved into limestone cliffs.

Matera offers unique experiences, such as exploring the carved “cave churches” of San Pietro Caveoso, and visiting Palombaro Lungo, an underground reservoir built supply the town during times of drought and siege. Moreover, stay at a cave hotel, where modern amenities complement the ancient surroundings.

Matera at night is just so pretty: the lights illuminate its streets and caves, and everything looks like a scene from a movie. 

Taking a guided tour is always a good idea to get to know more about the city’s history. Matera’s historic center is pedestrianized, so you can walk everywhere — but wear comfortable walking shoes, since the streets are made of (very slippery) stone.

Locorotondo

The picturesque town of Locorotondo is known as “the White City” for its charming whitewashed buildings (similar to the white villages of southern Spain), many churches, and mansions along a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, where you can feel the atmosphere of Italy. Every corner is a photo opportunity, so have your camera ready!

The town lends its name to a renowned white wine known as “Locorotondo DOC.” It’s said to be the best Apulian white wine, having a subtle and fruity taste excellent for fish dishes. This is a great opportunity for a wine tasting in the region’s renowned vineyards.

Lastly, if you visit during August, you’ll get the chance to experience the Festival of Saint Rocco, when the community celebrates with music, religious processions, and a pyrotechnic feast. The holiday honors San Rocco, a wealthy Frenchman born in the 14th century, who distributed his wealth among the poor, served plague victims in Italy on a pilgrimage, and took a vow of poverty.

Taranto

I didn’t know about Taranto until I decided to make it a part of my Puglia tour last summer. The town dates back to the eighth century BCE, when it was founded by the Spartans along a natural harbor as a strategic maritime center.

Taranto is perfect for avoiding crowds, as it’s less known but really worth it! Its labyrinth of narrow streets in the historic Old Town, which is partially abandoned, is something you’ll never imagine seeing. Some people still live in the old houses and sell memorabilia on the streets. Make sure you visit during the daylight, as at night, it might be dangerous due to poor lighting and some strange people around. 

Also, you can snorkel and swim at the beaches of Lido Taras and Spiaggia di Porto Franco, which are known for their dolphins, which live nearby.

Monopoli

Monopoli is a tranquil fishing town in southern Italy that you’ll love for its fresh fish, pristine beaches, bars and restaurants, and historic Old Town’s warren of streets perfect for strolling.

Walk through the town’s historic, postcard-perfect seaport, with its colorful boats and waterfront, then unwind and swim in crystal-clear waters beneath rocky cliffs. Some of the best beaches are Cala Porta Vecchia and Porto Bianco.

Also, relax with a coffee at Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, and try some seafood, like octopus, and pasta dishes — you won’t regret it!

Alberobello

Alberobello is not your typical Italian city. Here, it’s about something different: the trulli life. These unique cone-shaped houses are not just some quirky postcard thing; they’re the real deal. Walking through Rione Monti district, you’re not just sightseeing; you’re diving into a UNESCO World Heritage site! 

When it comes to food, it’s not about fancy Michelin stars; it’s about the authentic taste of Apulia. Grab a bite at a trattoria — no need for reservations, just go where the locals go. 

Lastly, for a unique experience, stay in a historical trulli hotel! With vaulted ceilings, each trullo offers antique furnishings, while the rooms have vaulted ceilings and original stone features.

Padua

Padua, only a 40-minute drive from famous Venice, is one off-the-beaten-path destination in Italy. Here’s why it should be your next stop. 

Start with the Scrovegni Chapel — no crowded museums, just you and Giotto’s masterpiece. This isn’t your average art pilgrimage, but rather an experience that’s worth every second. Try to book ahead, though, as this isn’t a last-minute-decision site.

Next, stroll around Europe’s largest square, Prato della Valle, and finish by visiting the University of Padua, which is like stepping into a piece of history. Galileo taught here — yeah, that Galileo. No need for dusty textbooks, though; just imagine the minds that walked these halls!

Savona

What makes Savona an off-the-beaten-path destination is its unique setting and views of the Ligurian coastline. Imagine the city’s rich maritime history from the Fortezza de Priamar, which was used to house 500 prisoners during the 19th century. Explore the ancient walls for panoramic views.

Another beautiful gem is Darsena, the hub of local life in the harbor. You can stroll through the docks and enjoy the atmosphere without the need for pricey boar tours. Don’t forget to get a delicious gelato! 

Lastly, as you can see in the photo, the most famous structure is the La Torretta Clocktower. It was part of an old defensive structure dating back to the 16th century. On the roof, they used to make a bonfire as a kind of lighthouse for boats.

Brescia

Brescia is often overlooked in the standard Italian itinerary, but it’s a hidden gem, offering an authentic and offbeat experience. It’s about immersing yourself in the unexpected corners and hidden gems that define the true essence of Italy.

Museo di Santa Giulia provides an intimate encounter with history, free from the tourist crowds. Delve underground into the Brixia Archaeological Area for a unique journey through the city’s history. In Piazza della Loggia, you’ll feel the essence of local life. Culinary delights at Osteria al Bianchi showcase Brescia’s flavors.

Trieste

Along the Adriatic Coast lies charming Trieste, overshadowed by its sibling Venice. This hidden gem has a mix of Austrian, Slovenian, and Italian influences that won’t leave you disappointed. It’s perfect for a getaway that blends history, nature, and gastronomy.

Miramare Castle offers tranquility and sea views that will transport you back in time. La Barcolana, an international sailing regatta that takes place every year in the gulf on the second Sunday of October, transforms Trieste into a maritime spectacle!

Book your accommodation at Savoia Excelsior Palace for panoramic views and a touch of luxury from the 19th century.

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I hope this article inspired you to venture further afield and discover the authentic beauty of these lesser-known destinations.

If you were to embark on such a journey in Italy, which hidden gem from the article resonates with you the most?